Methods and apparatus for use in docking

ABSTRACT

In accordance with some embodiments, apparatus comprises a body defining: a first seat to receive a first device having a wireless communication interface; and a second seat to receive a second device having a wireless communication interface; a first wireless communication interface supported by the body to communicate with the wireless communication interface of the first device; and a second wireless communication interface supported by the body to communicate with the wireless communication interface of the second device. In accordance with some embodiments, apparatus comprises a body comprising a flexible pad; a first communication interface supported by the flexible pad, the first communication interface comprising a first wireless communication interface to communicate with a wireless communication interface of a first device; a second communication interface supported by the flexible pad; and a controller supported by the flexible pad to couple the first wireless communication interface to the second communication interface. In accordance with some embodiments, a method comprises: receiving a first device having a wireless communication interface on a body of a dock; receiving a second device having a wireless communication interface on a body of a dock; communicating with the wireless communication interface of the first device using a first wireless communication interface supported by the body of the dock; and communicating with the wireless communication interface of the second device using a second wireless communication interface supported by the body of the dock.

BACKGROUND

Proximity payment devices are in widespread use. A well known standardfor proximity payment devices has been promulgated by MasterCardInternational Incorporated, the assignee hereof, and is referred to as“PayPass”. A proximity payment device often includes a wirelesscommunication interface to transmit a payment account number and/orother information to a point of sale (POS) terminal. The wirelessinterface often includes a radio frequency identification integratedcircuit (RFID IC) and an antenna to receive a power signal from and/orcommunicate with the POS terminal.

Some proximity payment devices include an EMV risk parameter that isused to help reduce and/or limit fraud and/or bad debt. The EMV riskparameter is usually incremented or decremented each time the proximitypayment device is used in a purchase transaction. The proximity paymentdevice may be usable only until the EMV risk parameter reaches apredetermined value and/or until a predetermined amount has been spent.Thereafter, the EMV risk parameter may need to be reset if the proximitypayment device is to be usable in further purchase transactions.

One issue associated with the above method is how to reset the EMV riskparameter during periods of time in which the risk of fraud and/or baddebt is low, e.g., when the proximity payment device is not lost and theaccount is in good standing. Some systems reset the EMV risk parameterafter the proximity payment device has been used in a predeterminednumber of transactions. In some systems, this takes place the next timethat the proximity payment device is presented for a purchasetransaction.

The amount of time needed to reset the EMV risk parameter is sometimestwenty to thirty seconds, which can be considerably longer than theamount of time needed for the transaction itself. If the proximitypayment device has a card shape and contact terminals, the proximitypayment device may be inserted into a card reader with contacts thatmake contact with the terminals on the card.

However, some proximity payment devices do not have a card shape andthus may not be insertable into such a reader.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram of a system, according to someembodiments;

FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram of a proximity payment device,according to some embodiments;

FIG. 3 is a schematic block diagram of communication device, accordingto some embodiments;

FIG. 4 is a schematic block diagram of a subsystem of the communicationdevice of FIG. 3, according to some embodiments;

FIG. 5 is a flow chart that illustrates a method, according to someembodiments;

FIG. 6 is a flow chart that illustrates a method, according to someembodiments;

FIG. 7 is a schematic block diagram of a system, according to someembodiments;

FIG. 8 is a schematic block diagram of a system, according to someembodiments;

FIG. 9 is a schematic block diagram of communication device, accordingto some embodiments;

FIG. 10 is a schematic block diagram of a system, according to someembodiments;

FIG. 11 is a schematic block diagram of a system, according to someembodiments;

FIG. 12 is a schematic block diagram of a system, according to someembodiments;

FIG. 13A a flow chart that illustrates a method, according to someembodiments;

FIG. 13B a flow chart that illustrates a method, according to someembodiments;

FIG. 14A is a perspective view of a communication device and a pluralityof devices thereon, according to some embodiments;

FIG. 14B is a perspective view of a communication device, according tosome embodiments;

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a portion of a communication device,according to some embodiments;

FIG. 16A is a perspective view of a communication device in a firststate, according to some embodiments, in a first state; and

FIG. 16B is a perspective view of the communication device of FIG. 16Ain a second state, according to some embodiments; and

FIG. 17 is a schematic block diagram of an apparatus, according to someembodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram of a system 100 to reset an EMV riskparameter and/or other security parameter(s) stored in a proximitypayment device issued to an account holder, in accordance with someembodiments.

Referring to FIG. 1, the system 100 includes a proximity payment device102 issued to an account holder 104, a communication device 106 issuedto the account holder 104 and an authorization device 108. Thecommunication device 104 and the authorization device 108 are coupled bya communication link 109.

The proximity payment device 102 may include an EMV risk parameterand/or other security parameter(s). If the proximity payment deviceincludes an EMV risk parameter, such parameter may be incremented,decremented and/or changed in some other way each time the proximitypayment device is used in a purchase transaction. The proximity paymentdevice may be usable only until the EMV risk parameter reaches apredetermined value and/or until a predetermined amount has been spent.Thereafter, the EMV risk parameter may need to be reset if the proximitypayment device is to be usable in further purchase transactions.

In accordance with some embodiments, an EMV risk parameter and/or othersecurity parameter may be reset to increase the number of transactionsin which the proximity payment device may be used. The parameter may ormay not be reset to its initial value and/or attribute. In someembodiments, an EMV risk parameter and/or other security parameter maybe reset before the proximity payment device becomes unusable.

The proximity payment device 102 may have any configuration. In someembodiments, the proximity payment device 102 is supported by a caseand/or other type of body. Such case and/or other type of body isreferred to herein as body 110. Unless stated otherwise, the term“supported by” means partially and/or entirely disposed on, disposed in,mounted on, mounted in, installed on, installed in, contained in and/orembedded in.

In some embodiments, body 110 comprises a body of a key fob, awristwatch, a music player, a video player, a PDA and/or any otherportable device 112. In such embodiments, the proximity payment device102 may be referred to as a proximity payment system 102 of the device112. The device 112 may further comprise a system 114 to perform one ormore functions of the device 112. If the device 112 comprises awristwatch, the system 114 may comprise circuitry and/or components toperform one or more functions of the wristwatch. If the device 112comprises a music player, the system 114 may comprise circuitry and/orcomponents to play music. If the device 100 comprises a video player,the system 114 may comprise circuitry and/or components to play video(with or without associated audio). If the device 100 comprises a PDA,the system 114 may comprise circuitry and/or components to perform oneor more functions of the PDA. Although the system 104 is shown separatefrom the proximity payment system 102, in some embodiments, theproximity payment system 102 and the system 114 may share one or morecircuits and/or components.

The device 112 may further include a power source 116. The power source116 may be coupled (directly and/or indirectly) and/or supply power(directly and/or indirectly) to the proximity payment system 102 and/orthe system 114. In some embodiments, the power source 116 comprises abattery. If the device 112 comprises a wristwatch, a music player, avideo player, a PDA and/or any other portable device 112, the powersource 116 may power the key fob, respectively.

The communication device 104 may comprise any type of communicationdevice. As further described hereinafter, in some embodiments, thecommunication device 106 comprises a cell phone, a computer and/or adock.

The authorization device 108 may comprise any type of device capable ofproviding an authorization to reset the EMV risk parameter and/or othersecurity parameter(s) stored in the proximity payment device 102.

As stated above, the communication device 104 and the authorizationdevice 108 are coupled by a communication link 109. Unless statedotherwise, a communication link may comprise any type of communicationlink, for example, but not limited to wired (e.g., conductors, fiberoptic cables) or wireless (e.g., acoustic links, electromagnetic linksor any combination thereof including, for example, but not limited tomicrowave links, satellite links, infrared links), and/or anycombinations thereof. A communication link may be public or private,dedicated and/or shared (e.g., a network) and/or any combinationthereof. A communication link may or may not be a permanentcommunication link. A communication link may support any type ofinformation in any form, for example, but not limited to, analog and/ordigital (e.g., a sequence of binary values, i.e. a bit string) signal(s)in serial and/or in parallel form. The information may or may not bedivided into blocks. If divided into blocks, the amount of informationin a block may be predetermined or determined dynamically, and/or may befixed (e.g., uniform) or variable. A communication link may employ aprotocol or combination of protocols including, for example, but notlimited to the Internet Protocol.

FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram of the proximity payment device 102,according to some embodiments. Referring to FIG. 2, in some embodiments,the proximity payment device 102 includes control/storage circuitry 204and a wireless communication interface 205.

The control/storage circuitry 204 is operative to store a paymentaccount number and/or other information to be transmitted to a POSterminal. In some embodiments, the control/storage circuitry 204 maycomprise a simple memory device capable only of responding to apre-defined set of commands. In some other embodiments, thecontrol/storage circuitry 204 may comprise a secure microcontrollercapable of executing a pre-defined program.

The wireless communication interface 205 allows the proximity paymentdevice 102 to transmit and/or receive signals. The signals transmittedby the wireless communication interface 205 may include a paymentaccount number and/or other information stored in the control/storagecircuitry 204. The signals received by the wireless communicationinterface may include an interrogation, a power signal and/or othersignals.

In some embodiments, the wireless communication interface 205 isconfigured to allow the proximity payment device 102 to operate inaccordance with the above-mentioned “PayPass” standard.

In some embodiments, wireless communication interface 205 comprises anantenna 206 and transmit/receive circuitry 208. The antenna 206 may beconfigured to transmit and receive radio frequency (RF) signals and maycomprise a loop antenna and/or any other suitable configuration. Thetransmit/receive circuitry 208 may be coupled between the antenna 206and the control/storage circuitry 204.

In operation, wireless signals (e.g., RF signals) may be received by theantenna 206 and supplied to the transmit/receive circuitry 208, which inresponse may provide signals that are supplied to the control/storagecircuitry 204. The control/storage circuitry 204 may also providesignals that are supplied to the transmit/receive circuitry 208, whichin response may provide signals that are supplied to the antenna 206 andtransmitted thereby.

In some embodiments, the control/storage circuit 204 and thetransmit/receive circuitry 208 are disposed in a single integratedcircuit. In some embodiments, the control/storage circuitry 204 and thetransmit/receive circuitry 208 are disposed in an RFID IC. Unless statedotherwise, the term RFID is not limited to a specific type of RFID. Insome embodiments, an RFID may be a simple memory device capable only ofresponding to a pre-defined set of commands. In some other embodiments,an RFID may comprise a microcontroller capable of executing a program.Some embodiments may include further features. Some embodiments maycomprise other configurations altogether. In some embodiments, the RFIDIC comprises an IC that uses contactless technology, such as, forexample, as specified in international standard ISO/IEC 14443.

As stated above, in some embodiments, the communication device 106comprises a cell phone.

FIG. 3 is a schematic block diagram of communication device 106 thatcomprises a cell phone 300, according to some embodiments. Referring toFIG. 3, the cell phone 300 includes first and second subsystems 302,304. The first subsystem 302 may include circuitry and/or othercomponents to perform wireless communication with a cellular network.The second subsystem 304 may include circuitry and/or other componentsto perform near field communication.

Although the first subsystem 302 is shown separate from the secondsubsystem 304, in some embodiments, the first subsystem 302 and thesecond subsystem 304 may share one or more circuits and/or components.

The cell phone may further include a power source 306. The power source306 may be coupled (directly and/or indirectly) and/or supply power(directly and/or indirectly) to the first subsystem 302 and/or thesecond subsystem 304. In some embodiments, the power source 306comprises a battery.

FIG. 4 is a schematic block diagram of the second subsystem 304,according to some embodiments. Referring to FIG. 4, in accordance withsome embodiments, the second subsystem 304 includes control/storagecircuitry 404 and a wireless communication interface 405.

In some embodiments, the control/storage circuitry 404 may be a simplememory device capable only of responding to a pre-defined set ofcommands. In some other embodiments, the control/storage circuitry 404may comprise a secure microcontroller capable of executing a pre-definedprogram.

The wireless communication interface 405 facilitates wirelesscommunication. In some embodiments, wireless communication interface 405comprises an antenna 406 and transmit/receive circuitry 408. The antenna406 may be configured to transmit and receive radio frequency (RF)signals and may comprise a loop antenna and/or any other suitableconfiguration. The transmit/receive circuitry 408 may couple the antenna406 to the control/storage circuitry 404.

In some embodiments, the control/storage circuit 404 and thetransmit/receive circuitry 408 are disposed in a single integratedcircuit. In some embodiments, the control/storage circuit 404 and thetransmit/receive circuitry 408 are disposed in an IC that uses NFCtechnology, such as, for example, an NFC IC provided by PHILIPSELECTRONICS or NXP Semiconductors.

In operation, wireless signals (e.g., RF signals) are received by theantenna 406 and supplied to the transmit/receive circuitry 408, which inresponse may provide signals that are supplied to the control/storagecircuitry 404. The control/storage circuitry 404 may also providesignals that are supplied to the transmit/receive circuitry 408, whichin response, may provide signals that are supplied to the antenna 406and transmitted thereby.

FIG. 5 is a flow chart 500 of a method according to some embodiments. Insome embodiments, one or more portions of the method may be used inassociation with the proximity payment device 102 and communicationdevice 106. The method is not limited to the order shown in the flowchart. Rather, embodiments of the method may be performed in any orderthat is practicable. For that matter, unless stated otherwise, anymethod disclosed herein may be performed in any order that ispracticable. Notably, some embodiments may employ one or more portionsof the method without one or more other portions of the method.

At 502, the method may include providing a security parameter in aproximity payment device issued, and/or to be issued, to an accountholder. In some embodiments such security parameter comprises an EMVrisk parameter that is provided in the course of personalization and/ora pre-personalization of the proximity payment device. As is known,pre-personalization of the proximity payment device may include storinginformation such as keys to be used in subsequent transactions and/orparameters to be used to select a particular card brand to be borne bythe proximity payment device. This may include writing information suchas loading of keys to be used in subsequent transactions and parameters(such as to select a particular card brand to be borne by the proximitypayment device) into the control/storage circuitry 204 (FIG. 2) of theproximity payment device. Pre-personalization may further includeprinting information such as a payment card association brand, etc., onthe proximity payment device. If a multiple proximity payment devicesare processed as a batch, the information transmitted to each proximitypayment device and/or printed on each proximity payment device may bethe same for all proximity payment devices in the batch.

Personalization of the proximity payment device may include assigningthe proximity payment device to a particular payment account and/or aparticular account holder by storing information in the proximitypayment device. This may include writing a payment card account numberand a name of the account holder into the control/storage circuitry 204(FIG. 2) of a proximity payment device. Other information, such asexpiration date, may be stored in either of the pre-personalization andpersonalization steps. Personalization may further include printing thepayment account number and/or any other information (or a portionthereof) that was (or is to be) stored in the proximity payment device102 on a surface of the proximity payment device 102. In someembodiments, pre-personalization and personalization steps may becombined into one step. In some embodiments, personalization and/orpre-personalization is carried out using contactless card programmingequipment commonly used to program proximity payment cards, such as forexample, a model 9000 available from Datacard Group, Minnetonka, Minn.

Unless stated otherwise, the term “issued to” may include, but is notlimited to, given to, loaned to, rented to, sold to, and/or transferredto.

At 504, the method may further include issuing the proximity paymentdevice to the account holder. Unless stated otherwise, the term“issuing” may include, but is not limited to, giving, loaning, renting,selling and/or transferring. In some embodiments, issuing the proximitypayment device to the account holder includes mailing and/or otherwisesending the proximity payment device to the account holder.

At 506, the method may further include adding the proximity paymentdevice to a cell phone, a music player, a video player, a PDA, awristwatch, a wristband, a bracelet, a pendant, a key fob and/or anyother type of consumer or portable device such that the proximitypayment device is supported by a body of the portable device. In someembodiments, this is carried out by the account holder, after theproximity payment device is issued to the account holder.

At 508, the method may further include using the proximity paymentdevice in one or more transactions. In some embodiments, this may becarried out in a conventional manner, e.g., in accordance with theabove-mentioned “PayPass” standard. For example, the proximity paymentdevice may be presented to a proximity coupling device (not shown) of aPOS terminal (not shown) to accomplish payment for a transaction. Theproximity coupling device may transmit an interrogation signal. Theproximity payment device may receive the interrogation signal via theantenna 206 (FIG. 2). The received interrogation signal may cause thecircuitry of the proximity payment device to be powered-up. For example,the proximity payment device may include circuitry to rectify thereceived interrogation signal to generate a DC power that may be used topower the control/storage circuitry 204 (FIG. 2) and transmit/receivecircuitry 208 (FIG. 2). The proximity payment device may transmit asignal to the proximity coupling device in response to the interrogationsignal. The proximity payment device may transmit the signal (andpossibly one or more additional signals) to the proximity couplingdevice via the antenna 206 (FIG. 2). One or more signals transmitted bythe proximity payment device may include a payment card account numberand/or other information required for interaction with the proximitycoupling device. In some embodiments, the proximity payment device maytransmit the payment card account number and/or other information viathe antenna 206 (FIG. 2) after a handshake procedure or the like withthe POS terminal. The POS terminal may then interact with a payment cardsystem to charge the current sales transaction to the payment cardaccount represented by the payment card account number received from theproximity payment device.

In some embodiments, the proximity payment device may be presented tothe proximity coupling device by simply positioning the proximitypayment device within wireless communication range of the proximitycoupling device. In some embodiments, the proximity payment device maybe presented to the proximity payment device by positioning theproximity payment device in physical contact with, and/or by tapping aportion of the proximity payment device on, the proximity couplingdevice.

In some embodiments, a proximity payment device may be selectivelyenabled/disabled in order to enable and/or disable operation of theproximity payment device. In some embodiments, a proximity paymentdevice may be presented to a proximity coupling device before, duringand/or after enabling operation of the proximity payment device.

At 510, the value of the EMV risk parameter may be incremented,decremented and/or changed in any other way in response to one or moreof such transactions.

At 512, the method may include presenting the proximity payment deviceto a communication device issued to the account holder. In someembodiments, the proximity payment device may be presented to thecommunication device by simply positioning the proximity payment devicewithin wireless communication range of the communication device. In someembodiments, the proximity payment device may be presented to thecommunication device by positioning the proximity payment device inphysical contact with, and/or by tapping a portion of the proximitypayment device on, the communication device.

At 514, the method may further include transmitting at least one signal,via a wireless interface, from the proximity payment device to thecommunication device. In accordance with some embodiments, the at leastone signal may include a request for authorization to reset the EMV riskparameter. In accordance with some embodiments, the communication devicemay transmit the request to an authorization device.

At 516, the method may further include receiving at least one signalfrom the communication device via the wireless interface. In accordancewith some embodiments, the at least one signal may include authorizationto reset the EMV risk parameter. In accordance with some embodiments,the communication device may receive the authorization from theauthorization device.

At 518, the method may further include resetting a security parameter inthe proximity payment device in response at least in part to receivingthe at least one signal from the communication device.

FIG. 6 shows a flow chart 600 of a method that may be used in resettinga EMV risk parameter, according to some embodiments. In someembodiments, one or more portions the method may be used in associationwith the proximity payment device 102 and communication device 106 inorder to reset the EMV risk parameter stored in the proximity paymentdevice 102. In some embodiments, one or more portions of the method maybe used at 510-518 in the method of FIG. 5. The method is not limited tothe order shown in the flow chart. Rather, embodiments of the method maybe performed in any order that is practicable. For that matter, unlessstated otherwise, any method disclosed herein may be performed in anyorder that is practicable. Notably, some embodiments may employ one ormore portions of the method without one or more other portions of themethod.

At 602, the method may include presenting a proximity payment device toa communication device. The communication device may recognize theproximity payment device, and at 604, the communication device maytransmit at least one signal to the proximity payment device. In someembodiments, the at least one signal may be transmitted via the antenna406 (FIG. 4) and may be similar to an interrogation signal of theabove-mentioned “PayPass” standard. In some embodiments, the at leastone signal includes a query as to a status of the EMV risk parameter inthe proximity payment device.

The proximity payment device may receive the at least one signaltransmitted by the communication device. In some embodiments, the atleast one signal may be received via the antenna 206 (FIG. 2) and maycause the proximity payment device to be powered-up. For example, theproximity payment device may include circuitry to rectify the receivedrequest signal to generate DC power that may be used to power thecontrol/storage circuitry 204 (FIG. 2) and transmit/receive circuitry208 (FIG. 2).

At 606, the proximity payment device may transmit at least one signal tothe communication device. The at least one signal may comprise a requestfor authorization to reset the EMV risk parameter. In some embodiments,the at least one signal transmitted by the communication device includesa query and the proximity payment device transmits the request forauthorization in response, at least in part, to such query. In someother embodiments, the proximity payment device transmits the at leastone signal without receiving any signals from the communication device.

The communication device may receive the at least one signal transmittedby the proximity payment device, and if the at least one signalcomprises a request for authorization to reset the EMV risk parameter,then at 608, the communication device may request an account numberand/or other data that may be required to receive authorization to resetthe EMV risk parameter.

The proximity payment device may receive the request for data, and at610, the proximity payment device may transmit the requested data to thecommunication device.

The communication device may receive the data transmitted by theproximity payment device, and at 612, the communication device maydetermine whether the data includes the requested data. If thecommunication device determines that the data does not include therequested data, then at 614, the communication device may inform a userthat the EMV risk parameter is not able to be reset. In someembodiments, the communication device informs and/or prompts the userusing a display. In some embodiments, information supplied to and/or bythe display comprises information supplied by the proximity paymentdevice. In some embodiments, information supplied to and/or by thedisplay may define one or more logos and/or brands. In some embodiment,the one or more logos and/or brands may include (i) a brand and/or logoof a national payment card association such as MasterCard InternationalIncorporated, (ii) a brand and/or logo of an issuer and/or merchantassociated with the proximity payment device (iii) a brand and/or logoof a specific card product.

At 612, if the communication device determines that the data includesthe requested data, then at 616, the communication device may inform theuser that an EMV risk parameter reset program is to be run.

At 618, the communication device may transmit at least one signal to anauthorization device. In some embodiments, the at least one signalcomprises a request for authorization to reset the EMV risk parameterand/or data that may be required to receive such authorization. In someembodiments, the authorization device comprises a device operated by theissuer and/or a device operated by a party associated with the issuer.

In some embodiments, the method includes establishing a communicationchannel to connect the communication device and the authorizationdevice. In some embodiments, the method includes establishing acommunication channel to connect the proximity payment device and theauthorization device.

If the communication device comprises a cell phone, the proximitypayment device may transmit the at least one signal via a communicationlink that includes the cellular network. If the communication devicecomprises a computer, the communication device may transmit the at leastone signal via a communication link that includes a telephone lineand/or a network, e.g., the Internet.

The authorization device may receive the at least one signal transmittedby the communication device, and at 620, the authorization device maydetermine whether to authorize reset of the EMV risk parameter. In someembodiments, this determination is based on whether or not risk of fraudand/or bad debt is low, e.g., the proximity payment device is notreported lost and the account is in good standing.

If the authorization device determines not to authorize reset of the EMVrisk parameter, then at 622, the authorization device may inform thecommunication device, which may in turn inform the user that the EMVrisk parameter is not authorized to be reset.

At 620, if the authorization device determines to authorize reset of theEMV risk parameter, then at 624, the authorization device may transmitat least one signal to the communication device. In some embodiments,the at least one signal includes an authorization to reset the EMV riskparameter. In some embodiments, the authorization comprises a script tobe executed by the proximity payment device to reset the EMV riskparameter.

The communication device may receive the at least one signal transmittedby the authorization device, and at 626, the communication device maytransmit the at least one signal to the proximity payment device.

At 628, the proximity payment device may receive the at least one signaltransmitted by the communication device. If the at least one signalincludes an authorization to reset the EMV risk parameter, the proximitypayment device may reset the EMV risk parameter in response at leastthereto. If the at least one signal includes a script, the proximitypayment device may execute the script to reset the EMV risk parameter.

At 630, the communication device and/or the proximity payment device maydetermine whether the reset was successful. If the reset was notsuccessful, then at 632, the communication device may inform the userand/or the authorization device that the reset was not successful.

At 630, if the reset was successful, then at 634, the communicationdevice may inform the user and/or the authorization device that thereset was successful.

In some embodiments, the communication device may be used in resettingthe EMV risk parameter in any number of proximity payment devices on anynumber of occasions. In some embodiments, the communication device maybe used in resetting the EMV risk parameter in only a limited number ofproximity payment devices and/or on only a limited number of occasions.

In some embodiments, the communication device may include a counterindicative of the number of occasions that the communication device maybe used in resetting the EMV risk parameters. The counter may bedecremented each time that the communication device is used in resettingan EMV risk parameter. If the counter reaches zero, the communicationdevice may no longer be used in resetting an EMV risk parameter. Someembodiments may allow the issuer to reset or increment the counter sothat the communication device may again be used in resetting an EMV riskparameter.

In some embodiments, one or more authentication protocols may be used inaddition to and/or in lieu of the one or more portions of the methodsdisclosed herein.

In some embodiments, the authorization device may transmit a request fora user identifier prior to transmitting an authorization to reset theEMV risk parameter. In accordance with some embodiments, a useridentifier may be required if an online purchase transaction isattempted. In some embodiments, the communication device may receive therequest for the user identifier and may prompt the user to enter a useridentifier (e.g., using a keypad). In accordance with some embodiments,a visible and/or audible indication may be provided to indicate that theattention of the user is required. If the user enters a user identifier,the communication device may transmit the user identifier to theauthorization device. The authorization device may determine whether theuser identifier is valid. If the authorization device determines thatthe user identifier is not valid, the authorization device may informthe communication device of such, and the communication device mayinform the user. The user may be given one or more additionalopportunities to enter a user identifier, however, the authorizationdevice may not transmit the authorization to reset the EMV riskparameter unless a valid user identifier is received.

In some embodiments, the communication device may store any data thatmay be required to receive authorization to reset the EMV riskparameter. In some embodiments, such data comprises the data received at612 of the method of FIG. 6. The communication device may thereafterrequest authorization to reset an EMV risk parameter even though theproximity payment device may not be present. The communication devicemay thereafter receive authorization to reset the EMV risk parameter,which the communication device may transmit to the proximity paymentdevice when the proximity payment device is next presented to thecommunication device. In some embodiments, the authorization may expireif not transmitted to the proximity payment device within a certainperiod of time, which may be specified by the authorization device atthe time that the authorization is transmitted to the communicationdevice. In some embodiments, this is carried out by performing portions602-604 of the method of FIG. 6 after portion 624 and without performingportions 606-614.

Thus, in some embodiments, it is possible to reset the EMV riskparameter in a proximity payment device without having to provide acommunication channel between the communication device and theauthorization device. Notably such a communication channel may notalways be available and/or may be inconvenient to provide and/or waitfor.

In some embodiments, the communication device may request authorizationon a periodic basis, shortly before an authorization expires and/orafter an authorization expires, so as to have an authorization availablewhen the proximity payment device is next presented to the communicationdevice.

In some embodiments, the communication device 106 may includeinformation that defines a schedule for requesting authorization. Insome embodiments, one or more portions of the information that definesthe schedule may be supplied by and/or based at least in part on datasupplied by the account holder.

In some embodiments, an account holder may present the proximity paymentdevice to the communication device on a periodic basis. In someembodiments, an account holder may present the proximity payment deviceto the communication device at night.

In some embodiments, the proximity payment device 102, the communicationdevice 106 and/or the authorization device 108 may transmit and/orreceive signals that include data not related to resetting a securityparameter in the proximity payment device. In some embodiments, suchsignals may be transmitted and/or received to and/or from one anotherand/or one or more other devices.

In some embodiments, the communication device 106 may includeinformation that defines the data to be transmitted and/or receivedand/or a schedule for transmitting and/or receiving such data. Thecommunication device 106 may also include information that defines oneor more sources and/or destinations for such data. In some embodiments,one or more portions of such information may be supplied by and/or basedat least in part on data supplied by the account holder.

In some embodiments, the authorization device comprises a device that isoperated by and/or on behalf of an issuer of the proximity paymentdevice. In some embodiments, the authorization device comprises a deviceoperated by and/or on behalf of a party associated with the issuer ofthe proximity payment device.

In some embodiments, the communication device 106 comprises a firstcommunication device issued to an account holder and the communicationlink 109 comprises a second communication device issued to the accountholder.

FIG. 7 is a schematic block diagram of a system 100 to reset an EMV riskparameter and/or other security parameter(s) stored in a proximitypayment device issued to an account holder, in accordance with someembodiments.

Referring to FIG. 7, in accordance with some embodiments, the system 100includes a proximity payment device 102 issued to an account holder 104,a first communication device 106 issued to the account holder, a secondcommunication device issued to the account holder and an authorizationdevice 108.

In accordance with some embodiments, the first communication device 106couples the proximity payment device 102 to the second communicationdevice. The second communication device may be coupled to theauthorization device 108.

In some embodiments, the first communication device 106 comprises areader and the second communication device comprises a personal computer(FIG. 8). In some embodiments, the first communication device 106comprises a dock and the second communication device comprises apersonal computer (FIG. 10). In some embodiments, the authorizationdevice 108 comprises a website (see FIG. 10). In some embodiments, theauthorization device 108 comprises a website of an issuer of theproximity payment device 102 (see FIG. 10). In some embodiments theauthorization device comprises an issuer device coupled to a paymentserver (see FIG. I 1). In some embodiments the issuer device is coupledto the payment server by a Banknet.

In some embodiments, the system 100 may be used to communicate otherinformation.

FIG. 8 is a schematic block diagram of a system 100 to reset an EMV riskparameter and/or other security parameter(s) stored in a proximitypayment device issued to an account holder, in accordance with someembodiments.

Referring to FIG. 8, in accordance with some embodiments, the system 100includes a proximity payment device 102 issued to an account holder 104,a communication device 106 that comprises a reader issued to the accountholder, a personal computer and an authorization device 108.

In accordance with some embodiments, the reader couples the proximitypayment device 102 to the personal computer. The personal computer maybe coupled to the authorization device 108 by the Internet.

In some embodiments, the system 100 may be used to communicate otherinformation.

As stated above, in some embodiments, the communication device 106comprises a dock.

FIG. 9 is a schematic block diagram of communication device 106 thatcomprises a dock 900, according to some embodiments. Referring to FIG.9, the dock 900 may include a body 902 that defines plurality of seatsto receive a plurality of devices. In some embodiments, such pluralityof seats may include a first seat 904 to receive a first device 906, asecond seat 908 to receive a second device 910, a third seat 912 toreceive a third device 914, and a fourth seat 916 to receive a fourthdevice 918.

In some embodiments, at least one of the first device 906, the seconddevice 910, the third device 914 and the fourth device 918 may compriseat least one of a cell phone, a wristwatch, a portable data assistant, amusic player and a key fob. In some embodiments, at least one of thefirst device 906, the second device 910, the third device 914 and thefourth device 918 comprises a proximity payment device.

In some embodiments, the first device 906, the second device 910, thethird device 914 and the fourth device 918 may each include a wirelessinterface. In some embodiments, at least one of the first device 906,the second device 910, the third device 914 and the fourth device 918may comprise a proximity payment device that is the same as and/orsimilar to the proximity payment device 102.

The dock 900 may further include a plurality of wireless communicationinterfaces to communicate with the plurality of devices. In someembodiments, such plurality of wireless communication interfaces mayinclude a first wireless communication interface 926, a second wirelesscommunication interface 930 , a third wireless communication interface934 and a fourth wireless communication interface 938. The firstwireless communication interface 926 may communicate with the wirelesscommunication interface of the first device 906. The second wirelesscommunication interface 930 may communicate with the wirelesscommunication interface of the second device 910. The third wirelesscommunication interface 934 may communication with wirelesscommunication interface of the third device 914. The fourth wirelesscommunication interface 938 may communication with wirelesscommunication interface of the fourth device 918. In some embodiments,the first wireless communication interface 926, the second wirelesscommunication interface 930, the third wireless communication interface934 and the fourth wireless communication interface 938 may each besupported by the body 902 and may each include circuitry and/or othercomponents to perform near field communication.

In some embodiments, the first wireless communication interface 926, thesecond wireless communication interface 930, the third wirelesscommunication interface 934 and the fourth wireless communicationinterface 938 are adjacent to a wall of the body 902 so as to helpmaximize the range of the interfaces 926, 930, 934, 938 outside the body902.

The dock may further include a controller 950. In some embodiments, thecontroller 950 is adapted to selectively couple the first wirelesscommunication interface 926, the second wireless communication interface930, the third wireless communication interface 934, and/or the fourthwireless interface 938 to one or more others of the first wirelesscommunication interface 926, the second wireless communication interface930, the third wireless communication interface 934, and the fourthwireless interface 938.

Thus, in some embodiments, the dock may facilitate communication betweenat least one of the first device 906, the second device 910, the thirddevice 914 and the fourth device 918 and at least one other of the firstdevice 906, the second device 910, the third device 914 and the fourthdevice 918.

The dock may further include a first port 952 and a second port 954. Insome embodiments, the first port 952 is connected to a personal computerand/or another device. In some embodiments, the second port 954 isconnected to a wired public telephone network.

In some embodiments, the dock 900 may facilitate communication betweenat least one of the first device 906, the second device 910, the thirddevice 914 and the fourth device 918 and at least one other device viaport 952 and/or 954. In some embodiments, the dock may facilitatetransfer of data between at least one of the first device 906, thesecond device 910, the third device 914 and the fourth device 918 and apersonal computer. In some embodiments, the personal computer is coupledto the Internet.

As stated above, in some embodiments, the proximity payment device 102,the communication device 106 and/or the authorization device 108 maytransmit and/or receive signals that include data not related toresetting a security parameter in the proximity payment device. In someembodiments, such signals may be transmitted and/or received to and/orfrom one another and/or one or more other devices.

In some embodiments, the dock 900 may include information that definesthe data to be transmitted and/or received and/or a schedule fortransmitting and/or receiving such data. The dock 900 may also includeinformation that defines one or more sources and/or destinations forsuch data. In some embodiments, one or more portions of such informationmay be supplied by and/or based at least in part on data supplied by theaccount holder.

The dock 900 may further comprise a polling antenna 960. The pollingantenna 960 may be used in detecting whether any devices with wirelesscommunication interfaces are within range of any of the wirelesscommunication interfaces of the dock 900. In some embodiments, thepolling antenna comprises an antenna to receives signals from thewireless communication interface of the first device, the wirelesscommunication interface of the second device, the wireless communicationinterface of the third device and/or the wireless communicationinterface of the fourth device.

The dock may further include a power source 990. The power source 990may be coupled (directly and/or indirectly) and/or supply power(directly and/or indirectly) to the circuits and/or components of thedock 900. In some embodiments, the power source 990 comprises a battery.In some embodiments, a power source may comprise a power supply thatreceives power from an AC outlet.

In some embodiments, the dock 900 may include criteria for selecting acommunication interface via which to transmit and/or receive signals.

In some embodiments, the criteria may include selecting a communicationinterface of the dock based at least in part on speed, reliabilityand/or security of a communication link that may be connected to thecommunication interface. In that regard, in some embodiments, thecriteria may include selecting a communication interface of the dock viawhich communication with a desired device may be fastest, most reliableand/or most secure.

In some embodiments, the criteria may include selecting a communicationinterface of the dock that is connected to the Internet and/or via whichcommunication with a desired device may include communication via theInternet.

In some embodiments, the criteria may include selecting a communicationinterface of the dock that communicates with a wireless communicationinterface of a cell phone, in the event that a connection (direct orindirect) to the Internet is not available.

In some embodiments, the criteria may include selecting a communicationinterface of the dock that communicates with a wired public telephonenetwork, in the event that a connection (direct or indirect) to theInternet and a connection (direct or indirect) to a cell phone are notavailable.

In some embodiments, the dock 900 further includes a key pad 980. Thekey pad 980 may or may not be supported by the body 902 of the dock 900.

FIG. 10 is a schematic block diagram of a system 100, in accordance withsome embodiments. Referring to FIG. 10, in accordance with someembodiments, the system 100 includes a proximity payment device 102issued to an account holder 104, a communication device 106 thatcomprises a dock 900 issued to the account holder, a personal computerand an authorization device 108.

In accordance with some embodiments, the dock 900 couples the proximitypayment device 102 to the personal computer. The personal computer iscoupled to authorization device 108 by the Internet. In someembodiments, the authorization device comprise an issuer website.

In some embodiments, the system 100 may be used to reset an EMV riskparameter and/or other security parameter(s) stored in the proximitypayment device 102 issued to an account holder.

In some embodiments, the system 100 may be used to communicate otherinformation.

FIG. 11 is a schematic block diagram of a system 100, in accordance withsome embodiments. Referring to FIG. 11, in accordance with someembodiments, the system 100 includes a proximity payment device 102issued to an account holder 104, a communication device 106 thatcomprises a dock 900 issued to the account holder, a personal computer apayment server and an authorization device 108.

In accordance with some embodiments, the dock 900 couples the proximitypayment device 102 to the personal computer. The personal computer iscoupled to payment server by the Internet. The payment server is coupledto the authorization device 108 by a Banknet. In some embodiments, theauthorization device comprises an issuer device.

In some embodiments, the system 100 may be used to reset an EMV riskparameter and/or other security parameter(s) stored in the proximitypayment device 102 issued to an account holder.

In some embodiments, the system 100 may be used to communicate otherinformation.

FIG. 12 is a schematic block diagram of a system 100, in accordance withsome embodiments. Referring to FIG. 12, in accordance with someembodiments, the system 100 includes a proximity payment device 102issued to an account holder 104, a communication device 106 thatcomprises a dock 900 issued to the account holder, a cell phone 300issued to an account holder and an authorization device 108.

In accordance with some embodiments, the dock 900 couples the proximitypayment device 102 to the cell phone 300. The cell phone 300 couples iscoupled to the authorization device via the cellular network.

In some embodiments, the system 100 may be used to reset an EMV riskparameter and/or other security parameter(s) stored in the proximitypayment device 102 issued to an account holder.

In some embodiments, the system 100 may be used to communicate otherinformation.

FIG. 13A is a flow chart 1300 of a method according to some embodiments.In some embodiments, one or more portions of the method may be used inassociation with the proximity payment device 102 and dock 900. Themethod is not limited to the order shown in the flow chart. Rather,embodiments of the method may be performed in any order that ispracticable. For that matter, unless stated otherwise, any methoddisclosed herein may be performed in any order that is practicable.Notably, some embodiments may employ one or more portions of the methodwithout one or more other portions of the method.

At 1302, the method may include receiving a first device having awireless communication interface on a body of a dock.

At 1304, the method may further include receiving a second device havinga wireless communication interface on the body of the dock;.

At 1306, the method may further include communicating with the wirelesscommunication interface of the first device using a first wirelesscommunication interface supported by the body of the dock.

At 1308, the method may further include communicating with the wirelesscommunication interface of the second device using a second wirelesscommunication interface supported by the body of the dock.

FIG. 13B is a flow chart 1310 of a method according to some embodiments.In some embodiments, one or more portions of the method may be used inassociation with the proximity payment device 102 and dock 900. Themethod is not limited to the order shown in the flow chart. Rather,embodiments of the method may be performed in any order that ispracticable. For that matter, unless stated otherwise, any methoddisclosed herein may be performed in any order that is practicable.Notably, some embodiments may employ one or more portions of the methodwithout one or more other portions of the method.

At 1312, the method may include selecting at least one communicationinterface of the dock. In some embodiments, this may include identifyingat least one communication interface of the dock that is capable oftransmitting to a device and selecting a communication interface of theat least one communication interface that is capable of transmitting atleast one signal to the device. In some embodiments, the device maycomprise an authorization device or other any other desired device.

In some embodiments, the method may include selecting at least one of awired communication interface of the dock and a wireless communicationinterface of the dock.

In some embodiments, this may include polling to detect a wirelesscommunication interface within range of the dock and/or selecting awireless communication interface of the dock capable of communicatingwith the wireless communication interface within range of the dock. Insome embodiments, this may include polling to detect all wirelesscommunication interfaces within range of the dock and identifying allwireless communication interfaces of the dock capable of communicatingwith the wireless communication interfaces within range of the dock. Themethod may further include selecting a wireless communication interfacefrom the wireless communication interfaces of the dock capable ofcommunicating with the wireless communication interfaces within range ofthe dock.

At 1314, the method may further include transmitting at least one signalfrom the selected communication interface of the dock.

In some embodiments, the dock 900 and/or other embodiments of thecommunication device 106 may transmit at least one signal that may bereceived by the antenna 206 (FIG. 2) of the proximity payment device 102and used to charge a battery and/or the power source 116. For example,the proximity payment device 102 may include circuitry to rectify thereceived signal to generate DC power that may be used to charge thebattery and/or other power source 116. In some embodiments, the at leastone signal may be transmitted via the antenna 406 (FIG. 4) and may besimilar to an interrogation signal of the above-mentioned “PayPass”standard.

In some embodiments, the dock 900 and/or other embodiments of thecommunication device 106 may transmit at least one signal that may bereceived by devices that are not proximity payment device and may beused to charge a battery and/or the power source 116 in such devices.

The dock 900 may have any configuration.

FIGS. 14A-14B are perspective views of the dock 900 with and withoutdevices thereon, in accordance with some embodiments. Referring to FIGS.14A-14B, in accordance with some embodiments, the body 902 of the dockmay comprise a rigid material. The first seat 904 may be defined by afirst recess 1404 shaped to receive the first device 906, the secondseat 908 may be defined by a second recess 1408 shaped to receive thesecond device 910, the third seat 912 may be defined by a third recess1412 shaped to receive the third device 914, the fourth seat 916 may bedefined by a fourth recess 1416 shaped to receive the fourth device 918.

In some embodiments, the first device 906 may comprise a cell phone, thesecond device 910 may comprise a digital camera, the third device 914may comprise a wristwatch and the fourth device 918 may comprise a keyfob, a key ring and keys. However, other embodiments may also beemployed.

In some embodiments, at least one of the first, second, third and fourthrecesses 1404, 1408, 1412, 1416 may be shaped so as to help position arespective one of the first, second, third and fourth devices 906, 910,914, 918 in a way that helps to maximize the strength of the wirelesscommunication between the wireless communication interface in the deviceand the respective wireless communication interface of the dock 900.

In some embodiments, the antenna for the wireless communicationinterface of the first device may be disposed adjacent to a lower rearportion the first device. The antenna for the wireless interface of thesecond device may be disposed adjacent to a bottom of the second device.The antenna for the wireless interface of the third device may bedisposed adjacent to a crystal and/or face of the third device. Theantenna for the wireless communication of the fourth device may bedisposed in the key fob.

Thus, in some embodiments, the recess 1404 to receive the first device906 may be shaped to receive the lower rear portion of the first device906 and to position the lower rear portion of the first device 906 flushagainst the portion of the body 902 that supports the respectivewireless communication interface 926 of the dock 900. The recess 1408 toreceive the second device may be shaped to receive the bottom portion ofthe second device 910 and to position the bottom portion of the seconddevice 910 flush against the portion of the body 902 that supports therespective wireless communication interface 930 of the dock 900. Therecess 1412 to receive the third device 914 may be shaped to receive thecrystal and/or face of the third device 914 and to position the crystaland/or face of the third device 914 flush against the portion of thebody 902 that supports the respective wireless communication interface934 of the dock 900. The recess 1416 to receive the fourth device 918may position the key fob of the fourth device 918 flush against theportion of the body 902 that supports the respective wirelesscommunication interface 938 of the dock 900. Thus, recess to receive thefourth device 918 may include a first portion and a second portion. Thefirst portion may have an elongated shape to receive an elongatedportion of the key fob. The second portion may have a circular and/orspherical shape to receive the key ring and the keys so as not tointerfere with positioning of the key fob.

In some embodiments, at least one of the first, second, third and fourthrecesses 1404, 1408, 1412, 1416 is further shaped so as to help positiona respective one of the first, second, third and fourth devices 906,910, 914, 918 in a way that helps to provide convenient access to anaccount holder using the dock 900.

In that regard, in some embodiments, the body 902 may include an angledportion 1420 that defines at least a portion of the first recess 1404.One or more portions of the angled portion may be tapered 1422.

In some embodiments, the body 902 defines an enclosure to enclose, or atleast substantially enclose, some or all components of the dock 900. Insome other embodiments, the body 902 does not define an enclosure toenclose, or at least substantially enclose, some or all components ofthe dock 900. For example, the underside of the dock 900 may be openand/or open at least in part.

The dock 900 may further include a user interface. In some embodiments,such user interface includes the keypad 980. In some embodiments, thekeypad is supported by the body 902 of the dock 900. In some otherembodiments, the keypad is supported by a body 1500 (FIG. 15) separatefrom the body 902 of the dock 900.

The keypad 980 may define a plurality of keys. If the keypad 980 issupported by the body 902 of the dock 900, the body 902 may define oneor more openings to receive the plurality of keys.

In some embodiments, the user interface includes a plurality of otherdevices. In some embodiments, such plurality of other devices mayinclude a first input/output device 1434, a second input/output device1438, a third input output device 1442 and a fourth input/output device1446. Each input/output device may be associated with a respective oneof the first, second, third and fourth devices 906, 910, 914, 918 andmay comprise a push button and/or an indicator. If the input/outputdevice includes a push button, the button may be depressable to indicatea desire to select the associated device. If the input/output deviceincludes an indicator, the indicator may indicate that the associateddevice has been selected and/or that the associated device is in use.

FIG. 16A is a perspective view of the dock 900 in a first state, inaccordance with some embodiments. Referring to FIG. 16A, in accordancewith some embodiments, the body 902 of the dock may comprise a flexiblematerial. In some embodiments, the body of the dock comprises a flexiblepad. In some embodiments, the body 902 comprises a foldable material.Such a design may facilitate storage and/or transportation of the dock900.

If desired, the body 902 may then be unfolded so as to allow the first,second, third and/or fourth devices 906, 910, 914, 918 to be positionedon a respective one of the first, second, third and fourth seats 904,908, 912, 916.

FIG. 16B is a perspective view of the dock 900 of FIG. 16A in a foldedstate, in accordance with some embodiments. Referring to FIG. 16B,according to some embodiments, the body 902 of the dock 900 may befoldable along one or more fold lines, e.g., 1602, 1604.

In some embodiments, at least one indicia is provided on the dock 900and/or other communication device 106 to indicate the position of atleast one antenna 406 (FIG. 4) of at least one wireless interface 405(FIG. 4) of the dock 900 and/or other communication device 106. In someembodiments, each of the at least one indicia is associated with arespective wireless interface of the dock 900 and/or other communicationdevice 106. In some embodiments, each of the at least one indiciacomprises indicia that is the same as and/or similar to indicia used inthe above-mentioned “PayPass” standard. In some embodiments, each of theat least one indicia comprises a line (solid or broken) that indicatesthe location of the antenna 406 (FIG. 4) of the associated wirelessinterface 405 (FIG. 4). In some embodiments, in addition or in lieuthereof, each of the at least one indicia comprises text withinstructions such as for example, “PLACE DEVICE HERE”.

In some embodiments, indicia is provided on the proximity payment device102 and/or one or more of devices 906, 910, 914, 918 to indicate theposition of an antenna 206 (FIG. 2) of a wireless interface 205 (FIG. 2)of the proximity payment device 102 and/or one or more of devices 906,910, 914, 918. In some embodiments, the indicia comprises indicia thatis the same as and/or similar to indicia used in the above-mentioned“PayPass” standard. In some embodiments, the indicia comprises a line(solid or broken) that indicates the location of the antenna 206 (FIG.2) of the wireless interface 205 (FIG. 2). In some embodiments, inaddition or in lieu thereof, the indicia comprises text withinstructions such as for example, “PLACE READER HERE”.

FIG. 17 is a block diagram of an apparatus 1700 according to someembodiments. In some embodiments, one or more of the devices (orportion(s) thereof) disclosed herein may have an architecture that isthe same as and/or similar to one or more portions of the architectureof apparatus 1700.

Referring to FIG. 17, in accordance with some embodiments, the apparatus1700 includes a processor 1701 operatively coupled to a communicationdevice 1702, an input device 1703, an output device 1704 and a storagedevice 1706.

In some embodiments, the processor 1701 may execute processor-executableprogram code to provide one or more portions of the one or morefunctions disclosed herein and/or to carry out one or more portions ofone or more embodiments of one or more methods disclosed herein. In someembodiments, the processor 1701 may be a conventional microprocessor ormicroprocessors.

The communication device 1702 may be used to facilitate communicationwith other devices and/or systems. In some embodiments, communicationdevice 1702 may be configured with hardware suitable to physicallyinterface with one or more external devices and/or network connections.For example, communication device 1702 may comprise an Ethernetconnection to a local area network through which apparatus 1700 mayreceive and transmit information over the Internet and/or one or moreother network(s).

The input device 1703 may comprise, for example, one or more devicesused to input data and/or other information, such as, for example: akeyboard, a keypad, track ball, touchpad, a mouse or other pointingdevice, a microphone, knob or a switch, an infra-red (IR) port, etc. Theoutput device 1704 may comprise, for example, one or more devices usedto output data and/or other information, such as, for example: an IRport, a dock, a display, a speaker, and/or a printer, etc.

The storage device 1706 may comprise, for example, one or more storagedevices, such as, for example, magnetic storage devices (e.g., magnetictape and hard disk drives), optical storage devices, and/orsemiconductor memory devices such as Random Access Memory (RAM) devicesand Read Only Memory (ROM) devices.

The storage device 1706 may store one or more programs 1710-1712, whichmay include one or more instructions to be executed by the processor1701.

In some embodiments, the one or more programs may include one or moreoperating systems, database management systems, other applications,other information files, etc., for operation of the apparatus 1700.

The storage device 1706 may store one or more databases 1714-1716 and/orcriteria for one or more programs. As used herein a “database” may referto one or more related or unrelated databases. Data and/or otherinformation may be stored in any form.

In some embodiments, data and/or other information may be stored in raw,excerpted, summarized and/or analyzed form.

In some embodiments, one or more portions of one or more embodimentsdisclosed herein may be embodied in a method, an apparatus, a computerprogram product, and/or a storage medium readable by a processingsystem.

As used herein, a signal may be any type of signal, i.e., a physicalquantity (e.g., voltage, current, or magnetic field strength), anindication, a message and/or any other type of signal or combinationthereof. A voltage, current, or magnetic field strength may be analog,digital, single ended signal, differential and/or any other type orcombination thereof.

A wireless communication interface may be any type of wirelesscommunication interface.

As used herein, a controller may be any type of controller. For example,a controller may be programmable or non programmable, general purpose orspecial purpose, dedicated or non dedicated, distributed or nondistributed, shared or not shared, and/or any combination thereof. Ifthe controller has two or more distributed portions, the two or moreportions may communicate with one another through a communication link.A controller may include, for example, but is not limited to, hardware,software, firmware, hardwired circuits and/or any combination thereof.

A circuit may be programmable or non programmable, general purpose orspecial purpose, dedicated or non dedicated, distributed or nondistributed, shared or not shared, and/or any combination thereof. Ifthe circuit has two or more distributed portions, the two or moreportions may communicate with one another through a communication link.A circuit may include, for example, but is not limited to, hardware,software, firmware, hardwired circuits and/or any combination thereof.

As used herein, the term “proximity payment device” refers to anydevice, of any shape, which transmits to a point of sale terminal, bywireless transmission, a payment account number. As used herein, apayment account number may be numeric, non numeric and/or a combinationthereof.

In some embodiments, a proximity payment device may also have a contactinterface like that of a conventional smart card that includes a contactinterface.

In some embodiments, one or more logos and/or brands, including forexample the brand/logo of a national and/or international payment cardassociation such as MasterCard International Incorporated, may beprovided on one or more surfaces of a proximity payment device. Thebrand/logo of the issuer may also be provided, as well as, for example,a specific card product brand. Embossed or non-embossed numbers and/orletters may be provided on the proximity payment device to indicate oneor more account numbers and/or a name of an account holder. Otherfeatures that may be provided on the proximity payment device are anadhesive paper strip to receive the signature of the cardholder, and asecurity code or the like printed on the adhesive strip. In addition,the proximity payment device may have one or more magnetic stripes toallow the proximity payment device to be read by a magnetic card reader.

Some of the principles taught herein have been described in the contextof an EMV risk parameter and/or resetting an EMV risk parameter.However, these teachings are also applicable to any type of securityparameter and/or resetting any type of security parameter.

In addition, some of the principles taught herein have heretofore beendescribed in the context of proximity payment devices. Nevertheless,these teachings are also applicable to any type of identification token.As used herein, the term “identification token” refers to a device,having a card shape or any other shape, that serves as one or more of aproximity payment device; a transportation related device; anidentification device to identify the holder for purposes apart from orin addition to transaction payments (e.g., to identify medical patientsand/or individuals insured by health insurance plans); a device used toportably store medical record information; stored value card(s); and toso-called electronic passports (also known as RFID-enabled passports)and/or a source of any type of information associated with a holder ofthe identification token (and/or the holder of the card installedtherein).

The term “transportation related device” refers to a card or otherdevice used to pay, or confirm or evidence payment of, a charge forusing a transportation system and/or cards or the like issued bytransportation systems (e.g., mass transit systems) for access to thetransportation systems. The term “RFID-enabled passport” refers to aninternationally recognized travel document that includes an IC and anantenna and communicates with a terminal by a wireless communicationtechnique. The term “information” may include but is not limited to aname, a social security number, an account number, an expiration date, asecurity code and/or medical information.

Thus, unless stated otherwise, “an account holder” may include, but isnot limited to, any person and/or entity having access to anidentification token and/or any accounts associated therewith.

As used herein, an account number may be numeric, non numeric and/or acombination thereof.

Unless otherwise stated, terms such as, for example, “in response to”and “based on” mean “in response at least to” and “based at least on”,respectively, so as not to preclude being responsive to and/or based on,more than one thing.

In addition, unless stated otherwise, terms such as, for example,“comprises”, “has”, “includes”, and all forms thereof, are consideredopen-ended, so as not to preclude additional elements and/or features.In addition, unless stated otherwise, terms such as, for example, “a”,“one”, “first”, are considered open-ended, and do not mean “only a”,“only one” and “only a first”, respectively. Moreover, unless statedotherwise, the term “first” does not, by itself, require that there alsobe a “second”.

Although the present invention has been described in connection withspecific exemplary embodiments, it should be understood that variouschanges, substitutions, and alterations apparent to those skilled in theart can be made to the disclosed embodiments without departing from thespirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims.

1. Apparatus comprising: a body defining: a first seat to receive afirst device having a wireless communication interface; and a secondseat to receive a second device having a wireless communicationinterface; a first wireless communication interface supported by thebody to communicate with the wireless communication interface of thefirst device; and a second wireless communication interface supported bythe body to communicate with the wireless communication interface of thesecond device.
 2. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the body defines afirst recess and a second recess, the first recess defining the firstseat, the second recess defining the second seat.
 4. The apparatus ofclaim 1 wherein the first device comprising at least one of a cellphone, a wristwatch, a portable data assistant, a music player and a keyfob.
 5. The apparatus of claim 4 wherein the first device comprises aproximity payment device.
 6. The apparatus of claim 4 further comprisingthe second device, the second device comprising a cell phone.
 7. Theapparatus of claim 1 further comprising: a controller to selectivelycouple the first wireless communication interface to the second wirelesscommunication interface.
 8. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising:a polling antenna to receive signals from the wireless communicationinterface of the first device and to receive signals from the wirelesscommunication interface of the second device.
 9. The apparatus of claim1 further comprising: a communication port to couple to a wiredcommunication interface;
 10. The apparatus of claim 13 furthercomprising: a controller to selectively couple the first wirelesscommunication interface to the second wireless communication interfaceand to selectively couple the first wireless communication interface tothe communication port.
 11. The apparatus of claim 10 wherein the atleast one external communication interface comprises at least one of atelephone line, a computer interface and the Internet.
 12. Apparatuscomprising: a body comprising a flexible pad; a first communicationinterface supported by the flexible pad, the first communicationinterface comprising a first wireless communication interface tocommunicate with a wireless communication interface of a first device; asecond communication interface supported by the flexible pad; and acontroller supported by the flexible pad to couple the first wirelesscommunication interface to the second communication interface.
 13. Theapparatus of claim 12 wherein the flexible pad comprises a foldable pad.14. A method comprising: receiving a first device having a wirelesscommunication interface on a body of a dock; receiving a second devicehaving a wireless communication interface on a body of a dock;communicating with the wireless communication interface of the firstdevice using a first wireless communication interface supported by thebody of the dock; and communicating with the wireless communicationinterface of the second device using a second wireless communicationinterface supported by the body of the dock.
 15. The method of claim 14wherein the body defines a first recess and a second recess, the firstrecess defining the first seat, the second recess defining the secondseat.
 16. The method of claim 14 wherein the first device comprising atleast one of a cell phone, a wristwatch, a portable data assistant, amusic player and a key fob.
 17. The method of claim 16 wherein the firstdevice comprises a proximity payment device.
 18. The method of claim 14further comprising: selectively coupling the first wirelesscommunication interface to the second wireless communication interface.19. The method of claim 14 further comprising: polling to receivesignals from the wireless communication interface of the first deviceand to receive signals from the wireless communication interface of thesecond device.
 20. The method of claim 14 further comprising:selectively coupling the first wireless communication interface to thesecond wireless communication interface; and selectively couple thefirst wireless communication interface to a communication port coupledto a wired communication interface.